Apple is expected to launch a foldable iPhone with an 8-inch flexible OLED screen sometime in 2023. According to analyst Ming Chi Kuo, the company plans to deliver up to 20 million units that year.
In a research report to investors, Ming Chi Kuo predicted that Apple’s first foldable iPhone will feature an 8-inch QHD + display that is 3,200 x 1,800 pixels higher than the 7.3-inch QXGA + -Display from Samsung Fold. The QHD + displays also offer a perfect 16: 9 aspect ratio, a departure from the current 19.5: 9 ratio seen on both the iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro.
“Our latest survey shows that the fast-growing foldable smartphone market has become a must for major smartphone brands,” writes Kuo. “The foldable smartphone will drive the next super-replacement cycle for high-end models.”
Apple is projected to manufacture between 15 and 20 million foldable iPhones in 2023. It is not known when the phone will hit the market, though the relatively low numbers will suggest a debut this fall alongside traditional iPhone formats.
Samsung Display is expected to act as Apple’s exclusive display provider while Samsung Foundry will take over the IC display drivers, Kuo said. Earlier rumors pointed to a partnership with LG Display. As recently as February, it was reported that Apple had reached out to the company to help develop folding screen technology. It was unclear whether LG would ever deliver hardware for a production version of the foldable.
According to Kuo, while Samsung will supply panels and control circuits for the future iPhone, it is not expected that the phone’s touch solution will be managed. Instead of Samsung’s Y-Octa technology, Apple is said to use the silver nanowire touch solution from TPK. TPK technology supports multiple folds as well as roll-up displays and medium to large screen sizes, according to Kuo.
